This Was Television On December 5

1952: The Abbott and Costello Show premieres

The acclaimed comedy duo were long-since stars of stage, screen, and radio by the time they came to TV. Their half-hour syndicated program blended comedy skits and musical numbers, echoing the format of their 1940s radio show. They didn’t have quite as much longevity on the small screen, however; The Abbott and Costello Show ran only until May 1954. -A.D.